Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What causes constipation?

Constipation is often caused by a combination of factors, such as not getting much exercise, coupled with a low-fiber diet and not drinking enough water. It can also be caused by changes in routine, travel, stress and pregnancy. Underlying medical conditions, such as under-active thyroid, dementia, eating disorders, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or, in rare cases, colon cancer, may cause constipation.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is constipation?

Constipation is when you are not passing stools on a regular basis, or they are difficult to pass. Most people will have constipation at some stage in their life and in most cases it is not serious. In general, passing a stool less than twice a week is considered …

Can constipation affect any age group?

Although constipation is more commonly seen in the elderly, it can affect anyone, at any age. Young children often get constipation; this usually passes when they drink more water and eat foods with more dietary fiber.

What are the symptoms of constipation?

Symptoms of constipation include: spending long periods of time on the toilet, having to push and strain to pass a stool; always feeling as if the stool isn't 'complete' and is often hard or painful to pass; abdominal (tummy) bloating, pain, and …

Does my diet cause constipation?

A diet low in fiber and high in processed, refined foods such as cakes, dairy products and some meats can cause constipation. To help ease constipation, increase the amount of unprocessed fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods you eat. Try brown rice …

Can medication cause constipation?

Yes, some medications such as antacids (for stomach acidity), strong painkillers, antidepressants and iron supplements can cause constipation. Check with your doctor if you think this may be causing your constipation.

Can constipation be a warning sign of a more serious condition?

Very rarely, constipation is a sign of a more serious condition. Constipation with pain or bleeding when passing a stool could be a warning sign of colon cancer, especially in people over 50 years of age, but it is also a sign …

What medications are available for constipation?

If lifestyle changes don't help your constipation, many people turn to medications such as laxatives or enemas to help move their bowels. These should not be used all the time though, as they make your bowels become less efficient.

What if laxatives don't work?

If laxatives have not worked to move impacted (built-up) stools, your doctor may suggest physically removing these in a non-surgical treatment. This involves inserting a gloved finger into the anal passage to break up impacted feces. An enema (liquid) will …

Can constipation cause other health problems?

Chronic (long-term) constipation may lead to a number of other issues such as: 1) Urinary incontinence - straining too much weakens pelvic muscles, which can lead to small amounts of urine leaking out when laughing, sneezing or running. 2) …

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is an unpredictable condition where the exact cause is often unknown. Stress, previous food-related illness and certain food types seem to trigger attacks. Working with your doctor to pinpoint triggers may help manage the condition.…
Diseases & conditions

Gallstones

Gallstones are usually small stones formed in your gallbladder, which is an organ that stores bile to help digest food. They can cause problems if they get stuck at the opening of the gallbladder or pass beyond.…
Diseases & conditions

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is a common condition sometimes called ‘gastro’ or ‘stomach flu’. The main symptoms are diarrhoea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Most people are at risk of developing it at some point in their lives.…
Diseases & conditions

Gastritis

Gastritis describes a group of conditions characterised by inflammation of the stomach lining. It occasionally causes symptoms like reduced hunger, nausea and indigestion, but in most cases doesn't produce symptoms at all. Gastritis usually isn’t dangerous and generally improves with treatment.…
Diseases & conditions

Coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is diagnosed when the body's immune system responds inappropriately to gluten, a protein found in wheat. This results in the inner surface of the small intestine becoming inflamed. A life-long gluten free diet is the main treatment.…
Diseases & conditions

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is where abnormal pouches form in the wall of the large intestines and become infected. It presents as abdominal pain, fever and unwellness. Treatment is important to prevent further complications.…

About this article

Author: Karen McCloskey BHSc
First answered: 23 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Votes: 592 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Irritable bowel syndrome

×

Content goes in here.